01.09.14

Sarah O’Connor

CEO of Federation of Irish Sport

“… the day will come when someone’s gender is no longer an issue …”

Sarah O’Connor is the CEO of the Federation of Irish Sport, a daughter, granddaughter, sister, friend, wife and now mum to 3 rascals. She has had a lifelong passion for all sport born out of being lucky enough to be exposed to a wide range of sports as a child as well as the friends she made and the places she visited because of sport. Sport changed her life. A solicitor by training Sarah’s day job now involves raising awareness of the benefits of sport and trying to convince the public, Government, media that Irish Sport does matter and that sport can and should play a central role in building a better Ireland.

Because I am a Girl I ask … to be given the opportunity and look forward to a day when all children are afforded equal opportunities in healthcare, education, sport, recreation and the arts.

Because I am a Girl I believe … that we need to celebrate our differences acknowledging that the similarities between different nationalities, races, creeds are always greater – we are all someone’s daughter or son.

Because I am a Girl I hope …that the day will come when someone’s gender is no longer an issue

Because I am a Girl I wonder … about the things that I can do that might make a difference

Because I am a Girl I dream … big as I see no reason not to

Because I am a Girl I remember … that time is precious, family and friends sustain me, to make the most of the opportunities I am given and to try to see things from other people’s perspective

Because I am a Girl I like … people, sport, food, fun, family, friends, holidays and most days work

Because I am a Girl I dislike … the ease with we seem able to criticise others

Because I am a Girl I feel … grateful for the opportunities that I have been given and for all the help and support I have got and continue to get along the way

Because I am a Girl I celebrate…the achievements of others (especially girls)

The views expressed in all blogs, are those of the authors only and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Plan Ireland

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For more than 80 years we’ve been taking action and standing up for every child’s right to fulfil their potential. On a daily basis, our energy is devoted to making a difference for children living in poverty.

We stand up for children’s rights and promote equality for girls. We listen to the children we work with and find the best way forward together. We trust in what we do.

Our approach mixes the practical with the entrepreneurial.

We’re open, accountable and honest. We believe it’s important to share the impact of our work with the people who support us. We are different. We are Plan International.

Plan International Ireland is a member of Dóchas and has adopted its Code of Conduct on Images and Messages.